Tag: Carrot classification

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, global production of carrots and turnips reached 42 million tonnes in 2022, highlighting their importance in diets worldwide. However, a common point of confusion for many vegetable enthusiasts and home cooks is the precise botanical classification of the carrot. This article clears up the misconception, explaining why carrots are not tubers and detailing the distinct biological features that set these plant types apart.

Domesticated carrots, specifically the orange variety known today, originated from a wild ancestor in Central Asia and belong to a large family of plants. The question of what classification do carrots fall under reveals a fascinating journey through botanical taxonomy, placing this familiar root vegetable within a precise scientific framework. From its kingdom to its genus, the carrot's classification highlights its unique biological properties.